Henderson County,
North Carolina, is the seventh largest apple producing county in the United
States. Its main city,
Hendersonville, is home to the famous
North Carolina
Apple Festival, held every summer. Apple orchards in the county range in size
from small family backyard plantings to some over 600 acres. The most popular
varieties are Rome, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Gala, Fugi, and Jonagold.
An average of one million mature apple trees are growing on nine thousand acres
producing approximately 5 million bushels of apples per year. A drive in the
country out Route 64 heading east through Edneyville towards Chimney Rock will
take you past some very scenic apple orchards, as well as past over 20 roadside stands
that sell fresh apples and cider. There are also a number of orchards where you
may pick you own apples. Contact the Hendersonville Flat Rock Visitors Center for current listings during
the apple harvesting season in late summer and early fall.

Nearby Apple Sources
While visiting the area during apple season, you might want to visit the
WNC
Farmer’s Market at 570 Brevard Road in South
Asheville. This is by far the biggest and best “roadside
stand” in the region. In the market square and tailgate section you will find a
great variety of apples for sale in any quantity you wish. They are open 8
a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Another favorite source for apples in season is
Hickory Nut
Gap Farm. In addition to their own homegrown apples, they also sell honey, ham,
and great cider. To get there take 74A east through Fairview to Hickory Nut Gap
and follow the small signs. The stand is located next to historic Sherrill’s Inn.
Hours of operation are 8 a.m.-6 p.m. daily during
apple season.